PM Anwar Calls For Stronger Border Enforcement To Combat Drug Smuggling

JITRA, July 25 (Bernama) -- Enforcement agencies, particularly those operating along the national borders, must further enhance their effectiveness in efforts to combat smuggling, especially drug trafficking, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar said he acknowledged the challenges in addressing the issue due to Malaysia’s vast borders over air, land and sea, and that close cooperation among all agencies was crucial to prevent border incursions.

“Even if they (the agencies) are efficient, it’s not easy because the borders are vast... however, all enforcement agencies must improve their efficiency to prevent leakages in enforcement management, such as the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK), the Narcotics Department and the Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS)... it is a huge responsibility to safeguard our people.

“If they need funding, facilities or equipment to address this drug problem, we will try to provide it,” he said in his speech at the 2025 Anti-Drug Day Celebration at Dataran Darulaman here today.

The Prime Minister said that in combating drug-related issues, the government must take a humble approach and be willing to collaborate with all parties while making every possible effort for the good of the nation.

Anwar said Malaysia's peaceful and stable ecosystem, coupled with rapid technological advancement, had made the country attractive in various ways—whether for good or ill—including for drug and alcohol smuggling, human trafficking, and the illicit cigarette trade.

In this regard, the Prime Minister said the government had appointed a capable figure to lead the newly established AKPS.

Anwar also expressed concern over the number of individuals involved in drug abuse, particularly among the Malay youth.

“The numbers are terrifying — loss of productivity, collapse of spirit. When it comes to drugs, we have to take action. Hundreds of thousands of our young people are involved, especially among the poor and those with weak educational backgrounds. Their future is in ruins because of drugs,” he said.

-- BERNAMA